Experienced hotelier joins Hand Picked Hotels to lead its Luxury division.
Hand Picked Hotels, a collection of 21 country houses and coastal retreats across the UK and Channel Islands, has appointed leading hotelier Andrew Stembridge as CEO of its Luxury division.
Andrew will join Hand Picked Hotels on 1 September 2026 and report to the Board. In his role, he will lead the next phase of development of the Luxury division, working closely with its hotel teams to further enhance the guest experience, strengthen performance and build on the individual character of each property.
Andrew brings extensive experience leading some of the UK’s best known luxury hotels and hospitality businesses. Most recently serving as Executive Director, Andrew joins from Iconic Hotels & Resorts, where he spent 22 years with the business. During this time, he oversaw the acquisition and repositioning of historic properties including Cliveden House and The Lygon Arms, led the creation of the iconic Treehouses concept at Chewton Glen, launched The Mayfair Townhouse and significantly expanded the portfolio while maintaining focus on the individuality and excellence of each distinct property.
The Luxury division is one of three divisions within Hand Picked Hotels, alongside Events and Channel Islands, reflecting the different markets in which its hotels operate and the distinct needs of their guests. Andrew’s appointment forms part of Hand Picked Hotels’ continued investment in specialist leadership and expertise across the business, following the recent appointments of Eugenio Pirri as Chief Culture Officer and David Spooner as Chief Commercial Officer.
As Group Director and Board Member, Ignace Bauwens will continue to oversee the strategic development of Hand Picked Hotels as a whole, working closely with its shareholders and the leadership of each division.
Julia Hands, Chair of Hand Picked Hotels, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Andrew to Hand Picked Hotels. As well as being a deeply experienced luxury hospitality leader, he shares our belief in identifying and celebrating what makes each of our hotels special, from the distinct character of the properties to the memorable guest experiences and the people who bring each hotel to life every day.
“With Andrew’s insight, judgement and experience leading some of the UK’s best luxury hotels, we are exceptionally well positioned to elevate our Luxury offering and deliver even more for our guests. His appointment is part of our continued investment across Hand Picked Hotels, ensuring every part of the business has the leadership and specialist focus to build on its strengths and thrive.”
Andrew Stembridge said: "Hand Picked Hotels is a remarkable collection of hotels which I have admired for many years. With no two hotels quite the same, there is a tremendous opportunity to celebrate what makes each property in the luxury portfolio unique while continuing to evolve the guest experience in ways that feel authentic, relevant and distinctive for today's guest. I am delighted to be joining Julia, Guy and the team at such an exciting point in the group's development.
“Over the coming months, I am keen to immerse myself in the business and spend time with the talented teams across the hotels. Hand Picked Hotels’ luxury portfolio has exceptional properties, talented colleagues and strong foundations, and by building on these strengths, I believe we have an exciting opportunity to create experiences that resonate with today's guests while establishing one of the most rewarding and admired places to build a career in hospitality."
About Hand Picked Hotels
Hand Picked Hotels is a distinctive collection of 21 privately owned luxury country houses and coastal retreats, each carefully selected for its individuality. Architecturally unique and quintessentially British, every hotel boasts a stunning location - from the rolling hills of Scotland to the shores of the Channel Islands.
Dedicated to creating unique and enchanting stays, personalised service lies at the heart of the Hand Picked experience. Delivered by warm and caring colleagues, the hotels offer a sanctuary where guests can unwind, relax, and be pampered. Every detail is thoughtfully managed to ensure magical moments that encourage guests to return time and again.
A passion for locally sourced food is evident throughout the collection. Award-winning chefs craft delectable modern British cuisine, complemented by fine wines, including selections from Villa Saletta, Hand Picked’s family-owned Tuscan vineyard.
Founded in 2001 by Chairman, Julia Hands MBE, Hand Picked Hotels operates with core values of family, individuality, community, and care - ensuring an authentic and personalised experience for every guest and employee.
Website: handpickedhotels.co.uk
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For further information, please contact: [email protected]
